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January Weather in West Des Moines, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In January, the average temperature in West Des Moines, United States hovers around -5°C (23°F). Expect temperatures to dip as low as -31°C (-24°F), while the mercury can rise to a maximum of 14°C (58°F). During this chilly month, precipitation amounts to 38 mm (1.5 in) over approximately 6 days, contributing to a fairly damp atmosphere with an average humidity of 78%.

January Temperature in West Des Moines

In January in West Des Moines, the average temperature is -5°C (23°F), with a maximum that can reach 14°C (58°F) and a minimum that can drop as low as -31°C (-24°F). Travelers should be prepared for a significant temperature range, with the potential for very cold days, so packing appropriate winter gear is essential.

January Weather in West Des Moines: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in West Des Moines, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In West Des Moines, January typically has an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), with highs reaching up to 14°C (58°F) and lows dropping to around -31°C (-24°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec232440506275777469533931
Data source: Temperature data for West Des Moines generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in West Des Moines

In West Des Moines in January, the total precipitation amount is 38 mm (1.5 in) spread over 6 days.

January Precipitation Trends in West Des Moines

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in West Des Moines, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In West Des Moines, January typically receives around 38 mm (1.5 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 6 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3840837217112267821121263937
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in West Des Moines

In West Des Moines in January, humidity is 78%. With an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), this humidity feels like a biting chill that penetrates your clothes, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and necessitating extra layers to stay warm while exploring the area.

January Average Humidity in West Des Moines

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in West Des Moines, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in West Des Moines is approximately 78%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec78%80%77%78%77%81%81%77%73%75%85%83%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in West Des Moines

In West Des Moines in January, the maximum UV index is 3, which corresponds to a moderate Exposure Category. The time to burn is approximately 30 minutes. For more details on the hourly UV index in West Des Moines, you can check the information here.

Maximum UV Index Levels in West Des Moines for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for West Des Moines in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in West Des Moines typically reaches 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35689111098643
Data source: West Des Moines January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

How January Weather in West Des Moines Compares to Other Months

Weather in West Des Moines varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in West Des Moines, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in West Des Moines, showing how January’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather-5°C (23°F)38 mm (1.5 inches)78%moderate
February Weather-4°C (24°F)40 mm (1.6 inches)80%moderate
March Weather4°C (40°F)83 mm (3.3 inches)77%high
April Weather10°C (50°F)72 mm (2.9 inches)77%very high
May Weather17°C (63°F)171 mm (6.7 inches)77%very high
June Weather24°C (75°F)122 mm (4.8 inches)81%extreme
July Weather25°C (78°F)67 mm (2.6 inches)81%very high
August Weather24°C (75°F)82 mm (3.2 inches)77%very high
September Weather20°C (69°F)112 mm (4.4 inches)73%very high
October Weather11°C (53°F)126 mm (4.9 inches)75%high
November Weather4°C (39°F)39 mm (1.5 inches)85%moderate
December Weather0°C (31°F)37 mm (1.5 inches)83%moderate

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